owner’s manual vhf470 - newcontent.westmarine.com€™s manual vhf470. making a distress call ......

Color: BlackModel 18736389

Color: GrayModel 18736397

Owner’s ManualVHF470

MAKING A DISTRESS CALL

Lift the red cover. Press and hold the DISTRESS key for three seconds. Your radio transmits your ship’s location every few minutes until you receive a response.

Lift the red cover and press the white DISTRESS button underneath.

Making a Voice Distress Call

Speak slowly - clearly - calmly.For future reference, write your ship’s name & call sign here:

1. Make sure your radio is on. 2. Press the 16/P key to switch to Channel 16 (156.8 MHz). (If the corner of the display does not show

16, press the 16/P key again until it does.) 3. Press the PUSH-TO-TALK key and say: “MAYDAY -- MAYDAY -- MAYDAY.” 4. Say “THIS IS name of your ship (three times) and call sign/ship registration number (once).”5. Repeat “MAYDAY name of your ship” once.6. Tell where you are: (what navigational aids or landmarks are near, or read the latitude and longitude

from your GPS). 7. State the nature of your distress (e.g. are you sinking, medical emergency, man overboard, on fire,

adrift, etc. ).8. State the type of assistance you need (medical, towing, pumps, etc.).9. Give number of persons aboard and conditions of any injured persons. 10. Estimate present seaworthiness of your ship (e.g. how immediate is the danger due to flooding or fire

or proximity to shore). 11. Briefly describe your ship, giving ship name (e.g. “Blue Duck is 32 foot cabin cruiser, white hull, blue

deck house”). 12. Say: “I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16.” 13. End message by saying “THIS IS name or call sign of your ship, OVER.” 14. Release the PUSH-TO-TALK key and listen.

NOTE: If you do not get an answer after 30 seconds, repeat your call, beginning at step 3, above.

Table of Contents

Making a Distress Call .............. iiINTRODUCTION .......................E-1

FEATURES ............................... E-1EXPLANATION OF TERMS ..... E-2WHAT'S INCLUDED .................. E-3PARTS OF THE VHF470 .......... E-3READING THE IDLE SCREEN ................................ E-5USING THE POP-UP KEYBOARD ........................... E-6MENUS ..................................... E-7USING SOFT KEYS ................ E-12OPERATION MODES ............. E-18

SETTING UP THE HARDWARE .....................E-23ATTACHING THE ANTENNA .. E-23INSTALLING THE BATTERY .. E-23MOUNTING THE CHARGER .. E-24

SETTING UP YOUR RADIO ...E-25TURNING IT ON .................... E-25ENTERING THE USER MMSI ......................... E-25SETTING IT UP ....................... E-25OPERATING THE RADIO ...... E-28

DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING FEATURES (DSC) ...............E-29WHAT IS DSC? ...................... E-29MMSI NUMBERS .................... E-30USING THE DIRECTORIES ... E-30MAKING DSC CALLS ............. E-32MAKING AN AUTOMATIC DISTRESS CALL ................. E-34DSC CALLS ............................ E-35TEST CALLS ........................... E-37POSITION REQUEST AND REPLY.......................... E-38

DISABLING AUTOMATIC CHANNEL SWITCHING ....... E-39

GPS FEATURES .....................E-39GPS OPERATION OVERVIEW .......................... E-39GPS MENU ............................. E-39

NMEA FEATURES ..................E-41CHARTPLOTTER CONNECTION .................... E-41NMEA OUTPUT ..................... E-42

ADDITIONAL FEATURES ......E-42RENAMING CHANNELS ....... E-42

MARINE RADIO APP ..............E-42MAINTENANCE AND

TROUBLESHOOTING .........E-42SPECIFICATIONS ...................E-44

REFERENCE TABLES ........... E-45MARINE RADIO CHANNEL CHART ................................. E-46WEATHER CHANNELS AND FREQUENCIES (US, CAN, AND INTL) ............................ E-51EMERGENCY ALERT (SAME) SYSTEM .................... E-51

REGULATIONS AND SAFETY WARNINGS ...........E-53MARITIME RADIO SERVICES OPERATION ..... E-53BASIC RADIO GUIDELINES .. E-54FCC/INDUSTRY CANADA INFORMATION ................... E-54COMPLIANCE ......................... E-56ANTENNA SELECTION AND INSTALLATION ................... E-57

THREE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ........................E-57

NOTES ....................................E-61

E-1VHF470 RADIO 1-800-BOATINGE-1

INTRODUCTIONWest Marine's VHF470 is a floating, hand-held class D DSC radio with an integrated GPS receiver. It is also Bluetooth capable so you can use West Marine's smartphone app (iOS and Android) to set up the radio and text message other VHF text message capable radios. You can enter other information such as DSC directory information and update the radio's firmware.

FEATURESYour radio provides the following key features:

• Submersible design. Complies with floating JIS8/IPX8 water-resistant standards, which means the radio can be submerged in 4.9 feet of water for up to 30 minutes without damage. The radio will only meet this rating if fully assembled and all rubber seals and bungs are well maintained and correctly fitted. This means that the speaker microphone bung is inserted, and the battery pack (or case) and antenna are attached and securely fastened.

NOTE: After your radio is submerged in water, the sound might be distorted. This is because there is still water remaining in and around the speaker and microphone. Just shake the radio to clear excess water, and the sound should return to normal.

NOTE: If your radio is exposured to salt water, clean it thoroughly with fresh water and dry it before turning it on. The charger is not waterproof.

• Memory Scan mode. Lets you save channels to memory and monitor them in quick succession.

• High/LO power level select. Lets you boost the transmitter power from 1W to 2.5 or 6W for added transmission distance.

• Battery level display and low battery alert.

• Dual and Triple Watch operation. These different watch modes let you monitor up to two Coast Guard Distress/Hailing channels and one weather channel along with one regular marine channel.

• All marine VHF channels for the U.S., Canada, and international waters

• Emergency 16/09 Channel monitoring. Set unit to scan one or both of these emergency channels regularly within normal scanning cycles.

• Class D second receiver is dedicated to monitoring the DSC watch channel 70 to ensure that no incoming messages are missed.

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Channel watch. Sounds a warning tone when a hazard alert is issued.

E-2 VHF470 RADIO 1-800-BOATINGE-2

• LCD and key backlight/Flashlight/SOS Strobe. Pressing the Light/Lock key initiates various light options (see Page E-4).

• Key Lock. Locks keys to prevent accidentally changing channels or entering data.

• Selectable Backlight Timer. Lets you select the length of time the backlight will be on.

• DSC. Lets you call other ships or groups using their unique identification code. This radio complies with International Class D DSC standards for Handheld GPS/VHF marine transceivers.

• GPS (Favorite Position mode). Lets you save your current position as well as manually enter other positions.You can save positions into a directory to return to them as desired.

• Bread Crumbs. Tags specific GPS points along your route. You can set how far apart these points should be (seconds, minute, etc) through the menus.

• Waypoints. Create a list of coordinates and use that list to navigate to various destinations.

• NMEA input/output. Lets you connect to a chartplotter and, through menus, determine what NMEA data you want to receive.

• 10 weather channels available for monitoring.

• MOB (Man Overboard). Lets you lock onto the current position when a Man Overboard situation occurs.

• Compass Display. Lets you determine the way you want the radio to display your course - by showing your course and direction or by showing location on an north-south-east-west display. Automatically auto-plots to a received DSC distress call.

EXPLANATION OF TERMS

Term What it MeansDSC Digital Selective Calling. A VHF radio standard for communicating among boats

and sending automated distress calls.FIPS Federal Information Processing Standard. A set of location codes roughly

equivalent to your county codes.WX Weather RadioGPS Global Positioning System

NMEA National Marine Electronics Association. The organization that governs standards for electronic equipment used on boats. NMEA 0183 is the standard for serial data communication used by GPS.

MMSIMaritime Mobile Service Identity number. A unique, nine-digit number that identifies you and your boat when making DSC calls. It is also used by the Coast Guard if you send an automated distress call.


WHAT'S INCLUDED

NOTE: Some of the graphics in this manual may vary slightly from the actual product.

PARTS OF THE VHF470

Front view

Key Press to... Press and hold to...POWER N/A Turn radio on and off.

Push-to-Talk N/A Transmit on a current TX power.

MON key Quickly open and close squelch (single press/release). Open Squelch.

Soft Function Keys (3)Activate function assigned to that key. Function displays on screen above key. See page E-12.

NA

MENU KEY Open the menus. NA Move up, down, left, or right on a screen. NA

Antenna

VHF470 Radio

Charging CradleAC Adapter

DC Adapter

Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery

Not shown: External speaker/microphone1 meter NMEA cable

Belt Clip

Wrist Strap

Mounting Hardware

Note: Thermal sensor on back.

ScreenExt. Speaker/ Mic jack

Antenna

PowerPush-to-Talk

MonitorMenu

Direction Arrows

CLRLight/Lock

Speaker

16/P

VOL/SQ

Function Keys

LED

DISTRESSMicrophone


Key Press to... Press and hold to...CLR key Returns to the IDLE screen. NA

Light/LOCK key

- Press once to activate the LCD and key backlight.

- Press twice to activate LED steady on (Flashlight).

- Press three times to activate the SOS strobe light.

- Press a fourth time to turn the LED off.

Lock key input to prevent input errors.

16/P keyCycle through call channel, channel 16, channel 9, and back to the starting channel.

NA

VOL/SQ key Press once: Adjust volume.Press twice: Adjust squelch. NA

DISTRESS key Activate DISTRESS screen. Send out default distress signal.

Back view

Belt clipBatteryBattery charging contacts

Battery latch

Wrist strap slot

Charger

Charging contacts

CHARGE LED

Screw holes

NMEA contacts

Screw hole


READING THE IDLE SCREENThe Idle screen shows different information depending on what you are doing. Not all icons display on every screen. This dummy Idle screen displays many of the possible icons. The table below shows pos-sible icons and what they mean.

ALTINTL

6WTRI MEMWX 15

COMMERCIAL

MOB WX CALL< >

TX

LAT:32˚53,6604NLON:096˚59,3158WTIME:20:47 LocalDATE:Aug 23,2017

1

8

9

7

65432

101112

161514

13

17

Display icons and what they meanNumber Icon What it means

1 Battery level

2 INT Channel mode (USA, INTL, or CAN)

3 Displays when mail is available.

4 ALT Weather Alert

5 Flashes when satellite acquired. Does not display if no satellite acquired.

6 Displays when Bluetooth is turned on.

7 1W, 2.5W, or 6W Power output.8 TX or RX Indicates Transmitting (TX) or Receiving (RX).9 Various Text Channel Name

10 Soft Key #3 Name of soft key (see page E-12).


Number Icon What it means11 Soft Key #2 Name of soft key (see page E-12).

12 Soft Key #1 Name of soft key (see page E-12).

13 GPS Data Latitude, Longitude, Time, and Date at current position.14 WX Displays when Weather mode active.15 MEM Displays when a channel is saved into memory.

16 TRI Displays TRI (Triple) or DUAL (Dual) watch mode as set in Menus.

17 Channel Number Current channel number.

HOW IT WORKSThe VHF470 uses a 3-part operating structure: Menus, Soft Keys, and a pop-up keyboard. These ele-ments work with each other to quickly set up and operate your radio.

• Menus - Press the MENU key to access the menus (see page E-7).

• Soft Keys - The soft keys relate to the three keys on the bottom of the screen. Many of these keys can access functions that are set up through the menus (see page E-12).

• Pop-Up Keyboard - Some of the menus and soft keys require alphanumeric input. The radio brings up a keyboard for this. You can change the keyboard from alphanumeric characters to special characters.

USING THE POP-UP KEYBOARDWhen you need to enter text, a digital keyboard pops up. "Type" on this keyboard by using the , , , and keys on the radio's keypad to move a curser through the keyboard. Press SELECT to select that character and move to the next spot.

• The ABC/abc key switches between capital and lower case letters.

• Select the @&? key to switch to the special character keyboard. Select ABC/abc to switch back to an alphanumeric keyboard.

• After using the , , , and keys on the radio's keypad to select a letter, press SELECT to "type" the letter. The letter then displays on the screen.

• Select the and keys to move the curser backwards or forwards into the entry.

• Select ENTER to move the curser to the next line.

• Select del to delete the character to the left of the curser.


BACK TEXT SELECT

CBA DMLK NWVU X

321 4E F G H I JO P Q R S TY Z

5 6 7 8 9 0

Enterspace@&?abc

del

TITLE

Switch between all capital letters and lower case letters

Move curser to next line

Switch to special character keyboard

Go to previous screen

Varies with screen type. Can be

CONFIRM, NEXT, etc.

Select letter chosen

Move curser to previous or

next letterDelete character to the left of the curser

MENUSVarious menus let you establish guidelines and parameters for sending and receiving calls. Menus also let you set your radio’s characteristics such as brightness, Code selection, and contrast.

• DISTRESS MESSAGE (see page E-9 for details)

• GENERAL SETUP (see page E-9 for details)

• RADIO SETUP (see page E-10 for details)

• GPS (see page E-11 for details)

• WAYPOINT SETUP (see page E-11 for details)

• BLUETOOTH SETUP (see page E-11 for details)

• DSC SETUP (see page E-11 for details)

• ABOUT (see page E-12 for details)

• RESET (see page E-8for details)

Use the UP ( ) and DOWN ( ) keys to find a menu category. Press the SELECT soft key to select and go to that menu.


SelectBACK

DISTRESS MESSAGEGENERAL SETUPRADIO SETUPGPSWAYPOINT SETUPBLUETOOTH SETUPDSC SETUPABOUTRESET

MENU DESCRIPTION REF. PAGE

DISTRESS MESSAGE Types of distress messages such as flooding, capsizing, and man overboard.

Page E-9

GENERAL SETUP Basic radio configuration such as backlight, key beep, and reset to factory defaults.

Page E-9

RADIO SETUP Basic radio configuration such as channel mode, priority channel, and scan type.

Page E-10

GPS Set up GPS configuration such as time offset, unit of measure, and direction.

Page E-11

WAYPOINT SETUP Establish Waypoint and route directories and routing information.

Page E-11

BLUETOOTH SETUP Turn Bluetooth on and off and provide a broadcast identifier (name) for your radio.

Page E-11

DSC SETUP Configure DSC calling and directories. Page E-11

ABOUT Displays radio, GPS, and Bluetooth firmware version numbers.

Page E-12

RESET (To Factory Defaults)

Reset the radio to factory defauts. All programming is lost, but not the MMSI number.

Page E-8


DISTRESS MESSAGE MenuSelect a distress message type to transmit when you use the DISTRESS key on the side of the radio. See page E-34 for information on how to send a distress message.

MENU ITEM DESCRIPTION

Undesignated Send this type when you, your crew, and/or your ship are in clear danger and there is no time to search for a more inclusive designation to use.

Fire, Explosion Send this type if there has been an explosion or a fire on the ship and you are in immediate danger.

Flooding Send this type if your ship is taking on water and you are in immediate danger.

Collision Send this type if your ship has collided with another ship or obstruction.

Grounding Send this type if the ship has run aground.

Capsizing Send this type if the ship is capsizing.

Sinking Send this type if the ship is sinking.

Adrift Send this type if the ship is adrift and unable to navigate on its own.

Abandoning Ship Send this type if you and the crew must evacuate the ship.

Piracy Send this type if your ship is under attack or unauthorized boarding.

Man Overbard Use this type if someone has gone overboard and you are unable to assist/locate them.

Distress messages are always transmitted on channel 70 at maximum RF power (6W).

GENERAL SETUP MenuYou can set up how your radio operates through the GENERAL SETUP menu.


Backlight Set how bright the backlight is and how long the backlight stays on. Backlight level: Off, 1 - 5 (Default = 3). Backlight duration: Always on, 5 sec , 10 sec, 20 sec, or 30 sec.

Contrast Set how dark the screen images are against the background. Contrast levels are 1 - 8 (Default = 4). (See page E-28.)



Key Beep With Key Beep turned on (default), the radio will beep every time you press a key.

SOS Strobe The LED on the front of the radio acts as a strobe light. Set water activation and timeout duration here.

Inactivity Timer Set how long the radio remains inactive before it times out.

Key Assignment Reassign soft key functions to different keys.

Reset Radio to Factory

Return your radio to the factory defaults. You will lose all programming.

RADIO SETUP MenuUse the RADIO SETUP menu to fine tune how the radio will operate. For example, you can rename channels, set channel modes, etc.


Channel Mode Set to USA, CAN (Canada), or INTL (International). (See page E-27.)

Weather Radio Turn weather alerts on or off (see page E-27) and enter S.A.M.E codes (see page E-27).

Dual/Tri Watch Turn Dual or Triple Watch on and off (see page E-18).

Priority Channel Select a channel to be the priority channel when scanning. (See page E-16.)

2nd Priority Channel Select a channel to be the secondary priority channel when scanning. (See page E-16.)

Scan Type Select a scanning type: Priority Scan or Memory Scan (see page E-16.)

Scan Pause Timer Set how long scanning will pause when the SCAN soft key is pressed.

Channel Name Rename a channel (see page E-42).

Noise Cancel Select noise cancelling for received or transmitted signals.



Receive Audio Pitch Set audio pitch. - Normal - Mid Range - Highs & Lows Boost - Lows Boost - Highs Boost

GPS MenuThe GPS section on provides an overview of the GPS menu options and how they work. See page E-39.

WAYPOINT SETUP MenuWaypoints (also called landmarks) mark specific points in traveling between two locations. They serve as al indicators. For example, once you reach a specific waypoint, you need to adjust your course to reach the next waypoint (and as you continue, your destination). See page E-17 for details on setting up waypoints.


Waypoint Directory Displays a list of all available waypoints.

Current Position Displays latitude, longitude, time, SOG, and COG.

Route Directory Displays a list of routes stored in the directory.

Routing Method Automatic or Manual

Route Display Displays routes on a compass screen.

Arrival Alarm Enter the distance at which you want the radio to alert you that you are close to the destination.

BLUETOOTH MenuSmart phones can discover your radio when you turn Bluetooth on with this menu. You can also change your radio's broadcast identifier (name).

DSC SETUP MenuYou can configure your DSC operation through this menu.


Enter Radio MMSI Enter the radio’s MMSI number to use DSC features.

Individual Directory Add, edit, or delete individual directory entries.



Group Directory Set up a group with an Group MMSI. Send this GROUP MMSI number to other ships.Those ships are now part of the group you created.

Auto ACK Automatically send an acknowledgement when you receive a test call. Options are Individual ACK or Position ACK request. You can set Auto/Manual for each option so when you get a call or a position request, the radio will kow how you want to respond.

Test Call ACK Acknowledge receipt of a test call sent to you.

Individual Call Ring Set the amount of time a call will ring before it times out.

Auto Channel Switch Set whether or not he radio will automatically switch to channel 16 from your current channel when it receives a DSC call.

Auto MOB Set Turn Auto MOB on and off.

Wait to POS Fix Set how long the radio takes to acknowledge a POS fix.

Auto Polling Time Set how long the radio takes between polling activities.

DSC Alarm Setup Turn DSC alarms on and off.

ABOUT MenuThis menu displays the current software version for the radio, GPS, and Bluetooth.

RESET (To Factory Defaults) MenuUsing this menu resets the unit to factory defaults, except for the MMSI number. Select OK to confirm the reset. Otherwise, select Exit to cancel.

USING SOFT KEYSMENU operations can set up the radio's configuration and databases. Soft keys use that information to perform quickly accessed procedures. For example, you can add ships to call (name and MMSI numbers) through MENU/DSC SETUP/Individual Directory. Then select CALL/INDIVIDUAL CALL through the soft keys and the ship you added through the menus displays.


Default; Scroll Right

Scroll left Scroll right

Soft Key Order

WXMOB CALL

HI/LO MEMTRI

SCAN

WPT

NAV

BT

COMP

Scroll Right

Scroll Right

Scroll Right

Soft Keys

Soft Key Operation

ALTINTL

6W

MEMWX 15

COMMERCIAL

MOB WX CALL< >

TX

LAT:32˚53,6604NLON:096˚59,3158WTIME:20:47 LocalDATE:Aug 23,2017

SPKR

NOTE: After selecting WX soft key, it changes to CH to return to the last marine channel.

MOB Soft KeyThe Man Overboard (MOB) soft key does not require setup through the menus.

1. Press the MOB soft key and the screen automatically marks your current location as MOB. The MOB screen displays the latitude, longitude, time, BRG (Bearing to Destination), and DIST (Distance to Destination). The radio’s GPS supplies this information automatically. The soft keys change to BACK, DEL, and NAV.

2. Select BACK to return to the previous mode and keep the current MOB information.3. Select DEL to delete the current MOB information and return to the previous mode.4. Select NAV to activate the COMPASS screen. Navigate to your destination

WX Soft KeyPress the WX soft key to display the last WX channel accessed (WX changes to CH). The screen displays the latitude, longitude, and time. Press and to scroll through weather channels. Press CH to return to the last marine channel.

CALL Soft KeyThe CALL soft key opens a CALL menu. You can use this menu as a “shortcut” to making different kinds of calls. You can also send and receive position requests and view the DSC call logs.

Some call types use the information previously set up in the menus to configure the call parameters. For example, if you select INDIVIDUAL CALL through the CALL soft key, a list of ships that were set up through MENU/DSC SETUP/Individual Directory displays.


Call Menu Option

Setup Operation

Distress Message None Press the CALL soft key and select DISTRESS MESSAGE.

Scroll to distress message type and press SELECT.

Individual Call Enter individual ships through MENU/DSC SETUP/Individual Directory.

Press the CALL soft key and select INDIVIDUAL CALL.

Scroll to the individual ship and press SELECT.

Press SEND on the Individual Call screen.

Group Call Set up a Group name and MMSI number through MENU/DSC SETUP/Group Directory.

Give this MMSI number to the ships included in the group.

Press the CALL soft key and select GROUP CALL.

Scroll to the group name and press SELECT.

Press SEND on the GROUP Call screen.

All Ships None Press the CALL soft key and select ALL SHIPS.

Select either SAFETY (hazards in the water) or URGENCY (people at risk).

Test Call Enter individual ships through MENU/DSC SETUP/Individual Directory.

Press the CALL soft key and select TEST CALL. The list of the ships entered previ-ously displays.

Select a ship and press SELECT. A Transmitting To message displays.

Position Request Enter individual ships through MENU/DSC SETUP/Individual Directory.

Press the CALL soft key and select POSITION REQUEST. The list of the ships entered previously displays.

Select a ship and press SELECT. A Position Request screen displays. Press SEND.


Call Menu Option

Setup Operation

Position Send Enter individual ships through MENU/DSC SETUP/Individual Directory.

Press the CALL soft key and select POSITION REQUEST. The list of the ships entered previously displays

Select a ship and press SELECT. A Position Send screen displays your current GPS location. Press SEND.

Auto Polling Enter individual ships through MENU/DSC SETUP/Individual Directory.Set the amount of time between polling requests through MENU/DSC SETUP/Auto Polling Time.

Press the CALL soft key and select Auto Polling/Activation/Selected ID. The Polling List screen displays. Press SELECT. Contacts list displays. Press SELECT again. The Individual ships entered into thre Individual Directory displays. Select a ship. Go back to the Auto Polling screen, select Activation/Start.

After you get an acknowledgement, scroll to COMP soft key. The ship's location should display on the Compass screen.

DSC Log None Press the CALL soft key and select DSC LOG. The DSC CALL LOG screen displays a list of options: DISTRESS CALLS, RECEIVED CALLS, and DELETE CALL LOGS.

Select a log and press SELECT. A Call Log displays the MMSI numbers of calls you’ve transmitted or received. Select an MMSI number and press SELECT. Information for that call displays.

If you select DELETE LOGS, the radio will delete the calls from that log.

HILO Soft KeyPress the HILO soft key to change the transmission power from 1.5W to 6W to 2.5W. The transmission power icon displays. (See page E-5 for the transmission power icon LCD placement.)

NOTE: If the maximum output for a specific channel is 1W only, the output power stays to 1W and the radio sounds an error tone.


TRI Soft KeyThis soft key displays as what is set in MENU/RADIO SETUP/Dual/Tri Watch. If that setting is TRI, then TRI displays. If the setting is DUAL, then DUAL displays. See page E-5 for the Dual/Triple icon LCD placement.

SETUPGo to MENU/RADIO SETUP/Dual/Tri Watch. Select DUAL or TRI.

OPERATIONPress TRI soft key. The screen scans the current channel and the priority channels set in the menus. The TRI icon displays on the LCD (see page E-5).

NOTE: If DUAL is set in the menus, then the screen scans the current channel and just the Priority channel; it does not scan the 2nd Priority Channel.

MEM Soft KeyPress the MEM soft key to save the current channel into memory. If the channel is already saved into memory, pressing this key will remove it from memory. (See page E-5 for the MEM icon LCD place-ment.)

SCAN Soft KeyThe SCAN soft key lets you scan combinations of channels saved into memory and priority channels. Set priority/second priority channels and the channel type through menus.

SETUP

1. Select MENU/RADIO SETUP/Priority Channel. Select a DSC channel for priority channel. (Default = 16.)

2. Select MENU/RADIO SETUP/2nd Priority Channel. Select another DSC channel for the 2nd Priority Channel. (Default = 9.)

3. Select MENU/RADIO SETUP/Scan Type. Options are Priority (scans both priority channels and channels saved to memory) or Memory (scans only channels saved in memory).

OPERATION

1. Press SCAN soft key. 2. Radio scans channels according to Main menu setup.

COMP Soft KeyThe Compass (COMP) soft key activates the compass screen. Press the N-UP soft key and the screen


orients to north. When you’re in N-UP mode, the soft key changes to C-UP mode. Press the C-UP soft key and the compass orients to the course‘s next Waypoint or bread crumb, as shown by a black dot

NAV Soft KeyPress this soft key to to select a previously stored route or waypoint as your destination.

WPT Soft KeyWaypoints are location coordinates you've entered into the system. Press the WAYPOINT soft key to select waypoints to navigate to.

NOTE: The radio shares memory space with ROUTE and can save up to 200 waypoints

SETUPSearch the internet for the location you want (use "coordinates" as part of the search term) and enter the coordinates through the MENU/WAYPOINT SETUP/Edit screen. For example, search for "Key West Naval Hospital coordinates."

BT Soft KeyYou can send a text message, review text messages, and turn Bluetooth on and off through this soft key.

Sending Text Messages

NOTE: You can send texts from your radio or from your mobile device using the West Marine app, available for Android and iOS.

1. Press the BT soft key and select TEXT MESSAGING.A pop-up keyboard displays (NEW MESSAGE) with the TO: area highlighted.

BACK NEXT SELECT

CBA DMLK NWVU X

321 4E F G H I JO P Q R S TY Z

5 6 7 8 9 0

Enterspace@&?abc

del

NEW MESSAGE

TO: _

2. You can enter a stored MMSI number, a new MMSI number, or a stored name (stored names are linked to a directory entry).


NOTE: The radio recognizes the first few letters entered and autofills the rest of the entry from the Individual or Group Directory.

3. Press the NEXT soft key and the curser moves to the message area with the letter "P" is high-lighted.

4. Enter your text message, press NEXT, and then SEND. Press EXIT to return to the previous mode.

View Messaging Select VIEW MESSAGING from the BT soft key menu. A list of MMSI numbers representing calls dis-plays. Select a message and press REPLY.

Bluetooth On/OffSelect BLUETOOTH ON/OFF from the BT soft key menu. Turn BT on or off (default).

SPKR Soft KeyIf you drop the radio in water, press the SPKR soft key to sound a loud tone. The vibrations from this tone help remove water from the speaker.

OPERATION MODESYour radio has three main operation modes: Normal, Scan, and Weather.

Mode What it does Use it when you want to... To turn it on/off

NormalMonitors a single marine channel and lets you talk on that channel.

Monitor a channel or talk to another radio.

From any mode, press CLR. The Idle screen displays. Select a different mode to turn Normal mode off.

Scan

- Monitors priority channels set in the Main menu.

- Monitors all the channels you save into memory.

- Monitor up to 2 additional channels in addition to the channels saved in memory.

- Check a small group of regularly-used channels for traffic.

Press SCAN soft key to start scanning. Press SCAN again to stop.

Weather Monitors the selected NOAA weather channel.

Hear the current or forecasted weather.

Press MENU. Go to RADIO SETUP/Weather Radio.


In addition to the three operation modes, your radio provides three different watch modes which you can activate during any operation mode. In the watch modes, the radio briefly checks for activity on a spe-cific channel, then returns to its previous operation.

Watch mode What it does To turn it on/off

Weather Alert Watch

Checks the last-used weather channel for hazard alerts every few seconds.

From MENU, select RADIO SETUP. Go to Weather Radio and select WX Alert to turn on or off.

Dual WatchChecks the priority channel for activity every few seconds. (Default priority channel = 16)

From MENU, select RADIO SETUP. Go to DUAL/TRI Watch and select Dual to turn Dual Watch on or Triple to turn Triple Watch on (and Dual Watch off).

Triple Watch

Checks the priority and second priority channels for activity every few seconds. (Priority channel default - 16; second priority channel default = 9)

From MENU, select RADIO SETUP. Go to DUAL/TRI Watch and select Triple to turn Triple Watch on or Dual to turn Dual Watch on (and Triple Watch off).

NOTE: Private ships must monitor channel 16. Whenever they are underway. Water-going ships should have either Triple Watch or Dual Watch on at all times.

Normal• To transmit, remove the radio from the charger, then press and hold PUSH-TO-TALK. Release the key when

you are finished talking.

• For the best sound quality, hold the microphone about two inches from your mouth while you’re talking.

• Press to move up one channel at a time. Press and hold the key to scroll quickly up the channels.

• Press to move down one channel at a time. Press and hold the key to scroll quickly down the channels.

• To change the transmit power, press the HILO soft key. The transmit power cycles through 1W, 2.5W, and 6W, then back to 1W again.

Normal Mode with Weather AlertIf you activate Weather Alert (MENU/RADIO SETUP/WX Alert) while operating in Normal mode, the radio checks the most recently used weather channel every seven seconds. If it detects a weather or other hazard alert, it will switch to that weather channel. (If you are actively transmitting, the radio waits until you finish your transmission before checking the weather channel.)


Normal Mode with Triple Watch or Dual WatchIf you activate Triple Watch while operating in Normal mode (MENU/RADIO SETUP/Dual/Tri Watch/Triple), the radio checks the priority and second priority channels every few seconds along with the current marine channel. With Dual Watch turned on, the radio only checks the priority channel and the current marine channel. The radio will not check either of the priority channels while you are actively transmitting; it waits until your transmission is finished and then checks the channels.

ScanThere are two Scan modes - Priority and Memory.

Scan/Priority ModePriority mode scans through the channels saved into memory and then the priority channel [set in the Main menu (see page E-16)]. For example: Memory Channel 1 --> Priority Channel --> Memory Channel 2 --> Priority Channel --> etc.

Scan/Priority Mode with Weather Alert OnIf Weather Alert is turned on with Priority mode, the radio alternately scans through the channels saved into memory and the priority channel (Memory Channel 1 --> Priority Channel --> Memory Channel 2 --> Priority Channel --> Memory Channel N ) and then scans the most recently used Weather channel.

Scan/Memory ModeYou can save any channel into memory and then use Scan mode/Memory Scan to monitor those chan-nels from lowest to highest. If the radio detects a signal on a channel, it stays on that channel as long as the signal is received; when the signal stops, the radio continues scanning.

wxEvery 7 seconds, the radio checks

the last-used weather channel.

WX Alert on

Monitoring Channel 25

111008 1312 14 1715

The radio scans about 5 channels in 0.5 seconds.

When it detects a signal, the radio stays on the channel until you press the

Channel Up button or the signal stops. Resume

scan


Scan/Memory Mode with Weather Alert OnIf Weather Alert is turned on with Memory mode, the radio scans through the channels saved into memory and then scans the most recently used Weather channel. (Memory Channel 1 --> Memory Channel 2 --> Memory Channel X, and then scans the most recently used Weather channel.

Using the Radio in Scan Mode

• To activate Scan mode, set the radio to either Priority Scan or Memory in MENU/RADIO SETUP/Scan Type. If you select Memory, the radio scans channels saved in memory. If you select Priority, go to MENU/RADIO SETUP and set the priority channel. The radio scans this channel in addition to channels saved in memory.

• You must have at least two channels in memory to start a scan.

• You can transmit while scanning.

• To save a channel into memory, select the channel, then scroll to the MEM soft key. Press it to save that channel into memory. The MEM icon displays whenever you tune to that channel.

• To remove a channel from memory, set the radio to that channel, then press the MEM soft key again. The MEM icon no longer displays and that channel is no longer saved in memory.

• When the radio stays on a channel, press to leave that channel and resume scanning.

• To end the scan, press the Scan soft key again. The radio remains on the last scanned channel.

Scan Mode with Weather AlertWhen you activate Weather Alert (MENU/RADIO SETUP/Weather Radio) while in Scan mode, the radio checks the most recently-used weather channel every seven seconds and then returns to the current marine channel:

1. If the radio receives a weather alert while scanning, it beeps to alert you that there is an alert on a weather channel. Press any key to stop the alert.

2. A Weather Alert Reception Confirnation screen displays. Select OK to display a confirmation screen.

3. The next screen gives you the option of switching to the weather channel (YES) or returning to the marine channel (NO).

Every 7 seconds, the radio checks the last-used weather channel, then scans the next channel. wx

WX Alert on

Memory Channel Scan08 252417151413121110 20


Scan Mode with Triple Watch or Dual WatchIf you activate Triple Watch (MENU/RADIO SETUP/Dual/Tri Watch menu or TRI soft key) while operat-ing in Scan mode, the radio checks the priority and second priority channels (default = channels 16 and 9) every two seconds, then goes on to scan the next channel in memory. With Dual Watch turned on, the radio only checks the priority channel:

Press MENU/RADIO SETUP/Dual/Tri Watch menu or TRI soft key again to cancel Triple Watch mode.

Select DUAL from MENU/RADIO SETUP/Dual/Tri Watch to set up Dual watch.

Both Weather Alert and Triple/Dual Watch in Scan modeYou can activate Weather Alert Watch and Triple/Dual Watch at the same time. Press MENU/RADIO SETUP/Dual/Tri Watch or the TRI soft key to turn on the Triple/Dual watch; turn on WX Alert through MENU/RADIO SETUP/Weather Radio.

If DUAL watch is activated, the radio scans the priority channel, the current marine channel, and then the most recently used weather channel.

If TRIPLE watch is activated, the radio scans the priority channel, the second priority channel, the current marine channel, and then the most recently used weather channel.

WeatherThe NOAA weather channels now cooperate with the FCC to alert you of other hazards besides weather (child abduction alerts, nuclear, biological, etc.). In Weather mode, the radio monitors one of the 10 NOAA weather channels. If a weather alert signal is received in Weather Alert mode, the radio sounds an alert tone.

NOTE: You can also scan Weather channels into memory.

0916

Every 2 seconds, the radio checks the priority and second priority channels, then scans the next channel.

Triple Watch on.Default priority channels 16 & 9.


Every 2 seconds, the radio checks channels 16 & 9, then scans the next channel.

Triple Watch on

Every 7 seconds, the radio checks the last-used weather channel, then scans the next channel. wxWX Alert

on


16 09


Using the Radio in Weather Mode

• You cannot transmit while in Weather mode.

• To enter Weather mode, press the WX soft key (WX changes to CH).

• To turn off the radio’s alert tone, press any key.

• To cancel Weather mode and return to the previous marine channel, press the CH soft key.

Weather Mode with Weather Alert WatchIf you activate Weather Alert Watch through MENU/RADIO SETUP/Weather Radio/WX Alert while operating in Weather mode, it operates as a type of “sleep mode.” The radio stays on the weather channel and mutes the speaker. If the radio detects an alert, it sounds an alert tone and turns the speaker back on. This mode is very useful when you are anchoring for the night but want to keep informed of hazards.

Weather Mode with Triple Watch or Dual WatchIf you activate Triple Watch (MENU/RADIO SETUP/Dual/Tri Watch menu or the TRI soft key) while operating in Weather mode, the radio checks the priority and second priority channels, then the current marine channel, and then the most recently used weather channel.

With Dual Watch activated (MENU/RADIO SETUP/Dual/Tri Watch menu) while in Weather mode, the radio checks the priority channel, the current marine channel, and then the most recently used weather channel.

SETTING UP THE HARDWARE

ATTACHING THE ANTENNAThe antenna detaches from the radio for easy shipping or storage. To attach the antenna to your radio, screw it tightly onto the anchor post at the top of the radio.

INSTALLING THE BATTERYYour radio comes with a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery; for shipping safety, the battery is not installed at the factory.

1. Insert the hook on the battery into the notch at the top of the battery compartment.2. Lower the battery until it rests flat in the compartment.

Every 2 seconds, the radio checks channel 16, then channel 9with Triple Watch on

0916 0916 0916

Monitoring Weather Channel WX08


3. Bring the battery latch up and snap it into place.

MOUNTING THE CHARGERYou can mount the charger on any flat surface.

1. Use the two holes at the base of the charger as a template to mark the drill holes. 2. Using a 1/8-inch (or 3 mm) drill bit, drill two holes 1/2 inch (13mm) deep.3. Use the provided screws to attach the charger to the surface.

NOTE: The charger must be mounted at least 2 feet (24 inches) from the compass to prevent magnetic interference with either device.

Charging the BatteryYour radio includes a charger and a rechargeable battery pack. You can recharge the battery pack in the charger by itself or installed in the radio. Being able to charge the battery pack by itself is especially useful if you purchase a second rechargeable battery; you can always have a charged battery available.

Charging the Radio with Battery Pack Installed

1. Insert the radio into the charger, making sure that it slots into the guide bars and the CHARGE LED on the charger turns red (charging).

2. The battery is fully charged when the LED turns green.

Charging the Battery Pack Only

1. Unlatch the battery from the radio case. Remove it.2. Insert the battery into the charger, making sure that the battery slots into the guide bars and the

CHARGE LED on the charger turns red (charging).


3. The battery is fully charged when the LED turns green.

Cautions:

• Use only the battery and charger supplied with this radio. Using a different charger or battery can damage the radio and create a risk of fire or shock.

• The charger is not waterproof. If the charger falls into the water, unplug it before attempting to remove it from the water. After you remove the charger from the water, please contact Customer Service (see the back cover page for contact information).

• Wipe off dirt or shake water from your radio before placing in the charger if your radio gets dirty or wet.

Important notes on charging the battery

• Charge the battery fully before using the radio.

• Don’t use the charger when the ambient temperature is below 0° C (32° F) or above 45° C (113° F).

• If the radio is powered down, the battery can charge in about five hours. (If the radio is powered on, the battery takes longer to charge.)

SETTING UP YOUR RADIO

TURNING IT ON Press the POWER key for at least two seconds until the West Marine splash screen displays. Release the POWER key. Press and hold it to turn the unit off.

ENTERING THE USER MMSIWhen you power up your radio for the first time, it displays MMSI Not Entered and then displays a Marine mode screen. User MMSI numbers are unique and cannot be entered more than once. See Page E-30 for general information about MMSI numbers and how to get your specific User MMSI number and enter it.

NOTE: Be sure you have the correct User MMSI number before entering it in the radio. The radio only allows you to enter the user MMSI once. If you need to re-enter the User MMSI number, contact customer service (1-800-BOATING).

If you choose to not enter your specific MMSI number at initial start up, you can still use many of your radio's features. However, you cannot use DSC features.

SETTING IT UPEven though you can change your radio’s settings at any time, you will probably want to establish initial settings when you turn it on for the first time. You can adjust some of these settings on an as-needed


basis, but some settings might only be set once and not need adjustment at all.

Acquiring GPS LocationThe West Marine VHF470 automatically acquires your current GPS location when it is turned on. Turn on the radio and point the antenna towards the sky. It will triangulate your location and save it.

NOTE: Do not let anything obstruct the antenna, such as a metal cabin ceiling. If the radio displays an Unable to Aquire message, move to an unobstructed location for the antenna.

Changing the Volume To change the speaker volume, press VOL/SQ to enter Volume Setting mode. Press to increase the volume or to decrease it (Volume levels = 0 - 15).

Setting the Squelch LevelThe West Marine VHF470 recognizes signals as transmissions if they exceed a signal strength threshold. Adjusting the squelch sets this threshold level. Increasing squelch requires a signal to be stronger to be seen as a transmission. If you set the squelch too high, you will risk not receiving transmissions that are lower than that threshold. Reducing the squelch allows weaker signals to be accepted. However, if you lower the squelch too much, you will hear white noise all the time.

The squelch feature reduces static on the speaker by filtering out any background channel noise. At the lowest squelch level, the speaker plays all signals, including any channel noise. Setting the squelch level higher filters out noise and lets only actual radio transmissions through.

While listening to a channel, press and hold VOL/SQ to enter Squelch Setting mode. Press to increase the volume or to decrease it (Squelch levels = 0 - 15). The following graphic shows squelch set high enough that only the strongest signals get through.

NOTE: Setting the squelch level too high may prevent you from hearing weaker transmissions. If you are having difficulty hearing a transmission, try setting the squelch level lower.

STRONG SIG.

MEDIUM SIG.

WEAK SIG.OPEN


Setting the UIC Channel Mode (USA/CAN/INTL)You can select marine channels for the USA, Canada, or International waters.

1. Press MENU, then select RADIO SETUP/Channel Mode. The Channel Mode menu displays.2. Select USA, CAN, or INTL and press the Select soft key. The RADIO SETUP screen displays

again.3. Press CLR to return to the Idle screen.

Setting Key LockYou can lock the keypad through pressing and holding the /LOCK key. KEYLOCK ON displays if you press a key while keylock is on. Unlock it by pressing and holding the /LOCK key again. UNLOCK displays.

NOTE: Key Lock does not affect PTT or the DISTRESS key. If DISTRESS is pressed, KEY LOCK turns off and KEYLOCK displays.

Setting WX Alert Mode1. Press MENU, then select RADIO SETUP/Weather Radio.2. Select WX Alert. The WX Alert screen displays with the options to turn this alert on or off. 3. Select ON. The Weather Radio screen displays again.4. Select Back to return to the RADIO SETUP screen. 5. Turn WX Alert off through these same menus.

Setting FIPS CodesFIPS codes identify counties in the United States. FIPS codes allow you to receive only the Specific Area Message Encoding (S.A.M.E.) alert occurring in a specific area. You can enter a maximum of 30 FIPS codes.

NOTE: For USA FIPS codes by state, see http://www.nws.noaa.gov/mirs/public/prods/maps/cnty_fips_list.htm. For Canadian FIPS codes, see https://www.ec.gc.ca/meteo-weather/default.asp?lang=En&n=E5A4F19C-1.

1. Press MENU then select RADIO SETUP/Weather Radio/S.A.M.E FIPS Code.2. Select Add. The Add FIPS Code screen displays.3. Enter the FIPS codes for your area (find them on the websites mentioned previously) and select

STORE. The S.A.M.E.FIPS Code screen displays again.Edit and delete FIPS codes in a similar manner.

Adjusting the BacklightThe backlight LCD function can be set to automatically dim after a set time.

1. Press MENU then select General Setup/Backlight. The Backlight menu displays.


2. Select Backlight Level and press or to adjust the brightness (Off, 1 - 5).3. Select Backlight Timeout and press or to set the length of time the backlight stays on before

turning off:• 5 sec

• 10 sec

• 20 sec

• 30 sec

• Always On

4. After selecting the Backlight Timeout, press SELECT. The BACKLIGHT screen displays again. Press CLR to return to the Idle screen.

Adjust the LCD ContrastThis feature lets you adjust the LCD’s contrast level.

1. Press MENU then select General Setup/Contrast. The Contrast screen displays.2. Press or to select a contrast level (1 - 8, Default = 4) then press SELECT. The GENERAL

SETUP screen displays again.3. Press CLR to return to the Idle screen.

Turning the Key Beep On and OffKey beep is the tone that sounds when you press a key.

1. Press MENU then select General Setup/Key Beep. The Key Beep menu displays.2. Select On (Default) or Off. The GENERAL SETUP screen displays again.3. Press CLR to return to the Idle screen.

OPERATING THE RADIO

Making a TransmissionSelect the channel you want to transmit on, then press and hold the PUSH-TO-TALK key. Begin talking. Release the PUSH-TO-TALK key when you’re finished talking to let the other party respond.

• To prevent stuck microphone problems or situations where the PUSH-TO-TALK key is pushed acciden-tally, the radio limits your talk time to 5 minutes in a single transmission.

• For the best sound quality, hold the microphone about two inches away from your mouth.

Changing the transmission levelIn most situations, 1W transmission power is all you need. If you find yourself far away from other ships and have trouble getting a response, you may need to increase the transmission power.

To increase the transmission power in increments:


1. Select the channel you want to transmit on. 2. Press the HILO soft key.to change the TX output power from 1W to 6W to 2.5W, then back again

to 1W.3. 1W, 6W, or 2.5W displays. The transmit power remains at the new setting on that channel until

you change it again.

NOTE: If you try to change transmission power output but the channel is only 1W, the radio sounds an error tone and stays at 1W.

Some channels (for example, channels 13 and 67) limit the transmission power to 1W. When you tune to a limited-power channel, the radio automatically switches to 1W. Changing the ChannelPress the or keys briefly to scroll through the channels one channel at a time. Press and hold the or keys to quickly scroll through the channels.

Saving the Channel into Memory1. When you are on a channel you want to save to memory, press or o scroll through the soft

keys until you find the MEM soft key.2. Press the MEM soft key. The channel you are on is saved to memory and the MEM icon displays 3. Press the MEM soft key when you are on a saved channel to delete that channel from memory.

Using the LED LightThis feature turns on an LED light. If you press LOCK twice, the radio turns on the high-intensity LED strobe on your radio. The LED flashes “S O S” in international Morse Code.

NOTE: Your radio operates normally when the SOS strobe is activated.

1. Press LOCK once. Turns LCD backlight on.2. Press LOCK again (twice). The LED turns on like a flashlight.3. Press LOCK again (three times). The LED blinks in a Morse code SOS pattern.4. Press LOCK again (four times). The LED goes off.

DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING FEATURES (DSC)

WHAT IS DSC? Digital Selective Calling (DSC) is a standard that allows you to call other ships using their unique identification code (the Maritime Mobile Service Identity or MMSI number), just like you would call a phone number. To call another station, just enter that station’s MMSI number and choose the voice chan-nel you want to talk on. The radio uses channel 70 to transmit your MMSI number to the other station along with the voice channel you requested. If the other station accepts your call, both radios automati-cally switch to the requested voice channel so you can talk to the other station.

DSC provides a system for automated distress calls. At the touch of a key, the radio can transmit your


MMSI number, the nature of your distress, and your current position based on data from your GPS receiver. The radio repeats the distress call every few minutes until it receives an acknowledgement.

The DSC standard dedicates a VHF channel—channel 70—to digital transmissions only. Since digital transmissions require less bandwidth voice transmissions, channel 70 avoids the problems of busy voice channels.

MMSI NUMBERSIn order to use DSC features, you must be assigned an individual User MMSI number and program that number into your radio.

You can get more information on MMSI numbers at these resources:

• The dealer where you purchased the radio

• Recreational boaters can obtain an individual MMSI number from the Boat Owner’s Association of the U.S. (http://www.boatus.com/mmsi/ or call 800-563-1536) or Sea Tow Services International (http://seatow.com/boating_safety/mmsi.asp)

• Commercial boaters need a ship station license to get an MMSI number. For more information, visit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website at http://wireless.fcc.gov/marine/ fctsht14.html.

Entering MMSI Numbers When you turn your VHF470 on for the first time, you have the option of entering your MMSI number at that point. If you choose not to enter your MMSI number then, you will still be able to use your radio; however, you will not be able to use any DSC features.

Entering Your User MMSI Number

NOTE: Be sure you have the correct User MMSI number before entering it in the radio. The radio only allows you to enter the User MMSI once. If you need to re-enter the User MMSI number, contact customer service (1-800-BOATING) for assistance.

1. Press MENU then select DSC SETUP/Enter Radio MMSI. The Enter MMSI Number screen displays.

2. Enter the MMSI number using the and keys. Select Next to enter the MMSI number again to confirm.

3. Press FINISH to save the MMSI number. The radio displays the Idle screen.

USING THE DIRECTORIESThe directories lets you store up to 80 individual MMSI numbers of other ships and 20 group MMSI numbers. From the directories, you can add, edit or delete MMSI numbers.


Individual Directory

Add

1. Press MENU then select DSC SETUP/Individual Directory/Add. The Individual DIR screen dis-plays.

2. Select NAME and press Select.3. A pop-up keyboard displays (see page E-6). Use the directional arrows to navigate through the

keyboard. Press SELECT after each letter. When the name is complete, press CONFIRM. The INDIVIDUAL DIR screen displays again. Select MMSI and press Select.

4. Use or to enter the MMSI number. When the ninth digit is correct, press SAVE.5. The radio displays the new MMSI number and name and asks you to confirm. To save this MMSI

number and name, press Select. To cancel this MMSI number entry, press Delete.

Edit

1. Press MENU then select DSC SETUP/Individual Directory/EDIT. The Individual DIR screen displays with a list of all the names entered into the directory.

2. Select a name and press SELECT.3. The name and MMSI number display. Select which item you want to edit and press SELECT. 4. Either a popup keyboard displays to edit the name or the MMSI number displays. When you've

finished editing, save your edits.

Delete

1. Press MENU then select DSC SETUP/Individual Directory/DELETE. The Individual DIR screen displays a list of all the names entered into the directory.

2. Select a name and press SELECT.3. The entry is deleted.

Group Directory

Add Unlike the user MMSI number, you don't have to get a group MMSI number from a specific organization. The first digit of a group MMSI is fixed at “0;” otherwise, you can create a number yourself. (If you are part of a boating club, for example, your club's leadership may have a list of approved group MMSI numbers to use.) You can also change the group MMSI number as often as you want.

1. Press MENU then select DSC SETUP/Group Directory/Add. The Group Dir screen displays. 2. Select ADD.Enter the group name and the Group MMSI number. Group MMSI numbers always

start with a 0, so that digit is already entered for you. 3. Press Select. The radio asks you to confirm. 4. To save this MMSI number, press Select. To cancel this MMSI number, press Delete.


Edit

1. Press MENU then select DSC SETUP/Group Directory/EDIT. The Group DIR screen displays with a list of all the groups entered into the directory.

2. Select a group and press SELECT.3. The group's name and MMSI number display. Select which item you want to edit and press

SELECT. 4. Either a popup keyboard displays to edit the group name or the MMSI number displays. When

you've finished editing, save your edits.

Delete

1. Press MENU then select DSC SETUP/Group Directory/DELETE. The Group DIR screen displays a list of all the groups entered into the directory.

2. Select a group name and press SELECT.3. The group entry is deleted.

MAKING DSC CALLSThere are essentially four different types of DSC voice calls:

Call type What it does When to use itDistress Alerts all ships that you need

assistance and sends them your current position.

In an emergency only.

Individual Calls a single station using the User MMSI.

When you want to talk to another station.

Group Calls all the ships that have the same Group MMSI as yours.

Any time you want to talk with the whole group you are traveling with at the same time.

All Ships Calls all ships within range of your radio.

Safety warnings (e.g., debris in the water) or any urgent situation.

Suppose you are coordinating safety for a sailboat race. Before the race starts, you instruct all the racers to enter your group MMSI number into their radios. During the race:

• Throughout the race, you use group calling to update the racers on the time, race status, and any course corrections.

• A power boat full of spectators comes too close to the race path. You use individual calling to contact the power boat and advise them to stay clear of the race.


• You see a rowboat entering the area, but since it doesn’t have a radio, you can’t communicate with the rowboat. You use all ships calling to alert all the other ships in the area of the possible danger.

Calling a single station (Individual Call) To call a single station with DSC, follow these steps:

1. Scroll thorugh soft keys to select CALL soft key. CALL menu displays. 2. The radio displays the ships listed in your Individual Directory (see page E-31). Select the ship

you want to call and press SELECT.3. The radio displays the ship you selected to transmit to and the transmission channel. Select SEND. 4. The radio displays the ship called and the elapsed time since the call was transmitted. 5. The radio automatically switches to channel 70 to transmit the call request.

• When the other station accepts the call, both radios switch to the selected response channel for voice transmission.

• If the other station did not respond on the channel you selected, you can select RESEND or BACK.

All ships call

Groupcall

Individualcall

All ships call


Calling a particular group of ships (Group Call)Group calling calls all the ships that share your group MMSI. You must have a group MMSI programmed into the radio to make a group call, and the ships you are calling must have this same group MMSI programmed into their radios in the GROUP Directory (see page E-31).

1. Scroll thorugh soft keys to select CALL soft key. CALL menu displays. 2. Select Group Call.3. A list of groups displays (see page E-31 to create groups). Press or to scroll through the

list and select the group to call. 4. The next Group Call screen shows the group and what channel you're transmitting to. After select-

ing SEND, the radio switches to channel 70 to transmit the call request and the screen displays a random countdown clock as it waits for an acknowledgement.

5. After the countdown clock ends, you can either resend the group call, or go back to the Idle screen, or let the radio generate another countdown clock.

6. After the radio receives an acknowledgement, it automatically switches to the designated response channel.

Calling all ships (All-Ships Call)All ships calling contacts all DSC radios within range of your ship. You should only use all ships calling in the event of a Safety warning (such as debris in the water) or to request assistance in an Urgency (any situation where your ship has a serious problem but is not yet in distress).

1. Scroll thorugh soft keys to select CALL soft key. CALL menu displays. 2. Select ALL SHIPS. The ALL SHIPS CALL screen displays, showing two options: SAFETY and

URGENCY.3. Select either option and then enter the channel to transmit on. Select SEND. 4. The next screen displays the type of ALL SHIPS CALL sent, the channel the call was sent on, and

a random countdown clock. 5. After the countdown clock ends, you can either resend the group call, go back to the Idle screen,

or let the radio generate another countdown clock.6. After the radio receives an acknowledgement, it automatically switches to the designated response

channel.

MAKING AN AUTOMATIC DISTRESS CALL After you have programmed your MMSI number, your radio can transmit an automated distress call on channel 16 at 6W with your current location and nature of the distress. The Distress Alert alarm sounds and the radio then monitors channel 16 for a response and repeats the distress call every few minutes until it receives an acknowledgement.

1. If you have not already selected a distress message type (see page E-9), go to MENU/DISTRESS MESSAGE. Select the nature of the alert from the list. The screen returns to the Main menu.

Undesignated Sinking Fire, Explosion Man Overboard

Adrift Flooding Abandoning Ship Capsizing


Collision Piracy Grounding2. Press and hold the DISTRESS key on the side of the radio for about 3 seconds. The Distress Alert

alarm sounds and the radio acquires GPS location if needed. After 10 seconds, the radio transmits the distress call, starts a random countdown timer, and waits for an acknowledgement.

3. After the timer counts down, another random countdown timer begins unless you take action Pause, Cancel, or Manually Resend).

NOTE: If no MMSI number has been programmed, the radio prompts you to enter your MMSI number.

Canceling an automatic distress call While the radio is waiting for a response, it gives you the option of canceling the call. To cancel the distress call, press the CANCEL soft key. A confirmation screen displays; press the YES soft key.

Resending an automatic distress call Press the RESEND soft key.

Receiving an automatic distress call acknowledgementOnce you receive an acknowledgement that the distress call was received, you must manually mute the acknowledgement alarm. Press the MUTE soft key.

Receiving a distress call When you receive a distress call, the Receiving DSC Distress Call alarm sounds. Press any key to silence the alarm.

NOTE: This radio does not have the ability to acknowledge a distress call. Only the Coast Guard or an authorized Search and Rescue agency can acknowledge a DSC distress call.

The soft keys change to QUIT (return to the Idle screen), PAUSE, and INFO (view longetude, latitude, and time sent information).

DSC CALLS

Individual DSC CallIf your radio receives an individual DSC call from another station, it sounds an incoming call alarm and displays the MMSI number of the station calling you.

Press any key to stop the alarm. The soft keys change to QUIT (return to the Idle screen), PAUSE, and INFO (view longetude, latitude, and time sent information).

1. After you silence the alarm and the soft keys change. press the PAUSE/CONT soft keys. The INDIVIDUAL RECEIVE screen displays.

2. This screen displays a channel option. Press the ABLE soft key to propose a different channel or UNABLE to send an Unable to Comply message and return to the Idle screen.


3. After pressing ABLE, the SELECT CHANNEL screen displays a list of available channels. Scroll to one and press SELECT.

4. The INDIVIDUAL RECEIVE screen displays. Press the CONT soft key. 5. The radio sends the ABLE TO COMPLY message and switches to the working channel.

Group DSC CallIf your radio receives a group DSC call from another station, it sounds an incoming group call alarm and displays the name/MMSI number of the group calling you.

1. Press any key to stop the alarm. 2. The soft keys change to QUIT (return to the Idle screen), PAUSE, and INFO (view longetude, lati-

tude, and time sent information). The radio also changes to the requested working channel.

Answer a DSC Call1. After you silence the alarm and the soft keys change. press the PAUSE then CONT soft keys. The

INDIVIDUAL RECEIVE screen displays.2. This screen displays a channel option. Press the ABLE soft key to propose a different channel or

UNABLE to send an Unable to Comply message and return to the Idle screen.3. After pressing ABLE, the SELECT CHANNEL screen displays a list of available channels. Scroll

to one and press SELECT.4. The INDIVIDUAL RECEIVE screen displays. Press the CONT soft key. 5. The radio sends the ABLE TO COMPLY message and switches to the working channel.

DSC Call LogsYour radio keeps track of the calls you send and receive. The DSC logs are useful if you have been off your ship or away from your radio and want to see who has tried to contact you. The radio displays the last 50 transmitted calls and the last 50 received calls that it received. If you have unread incoming DSC calls, the radio displays a Message icon. When you display all Distress and Other receiving logs, the message icon disappears.

1. Select the CALL soft key, then the DSC LOG. Three call logs display: TRANSMITTED LOG, RECEIVED LOG, and DELETE LOG.

2. Select TRANSMITTED LOG to see the last 50 transmitted calls transmitted by the radio. Select RECEIVED LOG to see the last 50 received calls received by the radio. Select DELETE LOG to delete entries in a specific log.

3. Calls are listed in the order they were received, with the newest call shown first. The display blinks if there are new calls you have not reviewed. The Message icon also displays.

4. Select the call you want to see the details of and use and to see all of the information for that call. The log displays different information depending on type of call received.

DSC Call Type Receive Log InformationDistress MMSI (or name), position, time, nature code.

Distress Acknowledge MMSI (or name), distress MMSI, position, time, nature code.


DSC Call Type Receive Log InformationAll Ships MMSI (or name), category code, communication channel number.

Group MMSI (or name), category code, communication channel number.

Individual MMSI (or name), category code, communication channel number.

Individual Acknowledge

MMSI (or name), Completed/Unattended, category code, communication channel number.

Test MMSI (or name), category code.

Test Acknowledge MMSI (or name), category code.

Pos Reply MMSI (or name), position, time, category code.

Pos Request MMSI (or name), category code.

Pos Send MMSI (or name), position, time, category code.

5. From the log menu, select Exit to close the RECEIVE LOG and return to the previous mode.

Making or Returning a Call1. From the CALL soft key, select DSC LOG.2. Select either TRANSMITTED LOG or RECEIVED LOG. A list of calls displays.3. Scroll up or down to select a call. The VIEW LOG displays the dall details.4. Select CALL from the VIEW LOG soft keys.

TEST CALLS

Making Test Calls (Test) You can use the test call feature to make sure your radio is working and configured correctly. To avoid overloading coastal receiving stations, you should limit test calls to these stations to once a week.

Many coastal stations have specific frequencies and MMSI numbers you should use for making test calls. Before making a test call to a coastal station, be sure to check the Local Notice to Mariners (LNM), issued every week by the US Coast Guard. The LNMs for each region are available online at http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=lnmMain.

1. Select CALL from the soft keys.The CALL screen displays.2. Scroll to TEST CALL and press SELECT. The list of ships from the Individual Directory displays.3. Select a ship. The next screen, Test call, displays the name of the ship you just selected; press

SEND.4. A Waiting for ACK message displays on the Test call screen.5. If you do not receive an acknowledgement, either resend the transmission or select BACK to return

to the Idle screen.


Receiving Test Call SetupWhen another station sends you a test call, you can select options to answer the test call manually or have the radio answer automatically.

1. Press MENU to display the menu options.2. Select DSC SETUP/Test Call Ack and press SELECT. 3. Press Auto for the radio to automatically send an acknowledgement when it receives a test call.

Press Manual to answer the call manually.4. The screen returns to the DSC SETUP menu.

POSITION REQUEST AND REPLY

Enabling Automatic Position ReplyIf you want the radio to automatically transmit your current position whenever it receives a position request, you can enable automatic position reply. Most boaters activate automatic position reply for safety reasons or because they subscribe to a marine towing service. Sometimes—for example, in some competitive situations--you may not want other ships to get your position without your manual confirma-tion.

1. Press MENU then select DSC SETUP/Auto ACK. The screen displays Individual ACK and Position ACK options.

2. Select either Auto or Manual for either option and then press Select.

POS RequestAny time you need to know where another ship currently is—to find your boating partners, to respond to a request for assistance, etc.—you can send a position request to their radio:

1. Select CALL soft key. The CALL screen displays.2. Select POSITION REQUEST. The POSITION REQUEST screen displays the list of ships you

entered into the Individual directory.3. Select a ship and press SELECT. A Position Request screen displays for confirmation. Press SEND.4. The radio sends out a position request to that ship and waits for acknowledgement.5. If you do not receive an acknowledgement, select BACK to return to the Idle screen.

Position Send If you are requesting assistance, using an all ships call to give a safety warning, or have received a Position Request, you can send your current position so other ships know where you are:

1. Press CALL soft key. The CALL screen displays. 2. Select POSITION SEND. 3. The radio displays the names listed in your directory; use or to choose the ship you want

to contact and press SELECT. If you want to contact a station that is not in your directory, select Manual.

4. The radio prompts you to enter the MMSI number you want to call. Enter the MMSI number the same way you enter directory entries (see page 22). Enter all nine digits and press SELECT.


5. The radio displays the name and MMSI number of the station you are about to contact along with your current position information.Select Send. To cancel the transmission, select Exit.

6. The radio transmits your current position information to the other station.

DISABLING AUTOMATIC CHANNEL SWITCHINGIf you are involved in a bridge-to-bridge call, you may not want the radio to automatically switch channels when it receives a DSC call. In cases like this, you can disable automatic channel switching. If you receive an individual call, the radio will respond with an unattended code, just as if the radio were in Standby.

1. Press MENU and then select DSC SETUP/Auto Channel Switch.2. The Auto Channel Switch screen displays, giving you the option to Accept DSC calls when they

come in (default), Ignore DSC calls, or make a Manual decision for each incoming call. When you have selected an option, the radio returns to the DSC SETUP screen.

NOTE: Use this feature with caution. Deactivating automatic switching and then forgetting it can make it hard for you to receive DSC calls.

If you have unread incoming DSC calls, the radio displays a message icon. You can review who has called through the DSC logs. The radio displays the last 50 transmitted calls and the last 50 received calls (see page E-36).

GPS FEATURES

GPS OPERATION OVERVIEWYour GPS system provides more than just your specific location. The MOB (Man Overboard) soft key (see page E-13) lets you immediately save your current position so rescuers can converge on that exact man overboard location. The Favorites menus let you create a directory of favorite places and their coordinates so you can easily return there. Using the GPS SETUP menus, you can determine power-saving options, measurement increments, and time settings.

The radio is factory-preset to search for your geographic location when it is turned on for the first time.

GPS MENUThe GPS menu options are:

MENU OPTION DESCRIPTION

Current Position Displays the following: - Latitude - Longetude - Time - Speed Over Ground (SOG) - Course Over Ground (COG)


MENU OPTION DESCRIPTION

GPS Signal Coverage

Displays latitude, longitude, and time as well as a map of active satellites within range. (Active satellites display as black dots; inactive satellites display as white dots.)

GPS Satellite Signal

Displays a list of satellite numbers and signal strength.

Battery Save Select what percentage of your battery power should be saved. - Auto (Default - the radio decides how to reserve power (for

example, mimimize background tasks/checks) - 40% - 50% - 70% - 90%

Time Offset Select length of time (in half-hour increments) to offset the time set on the radio.

Time Display Area: Choose between local time or UTC (UCT/GMT)Format: Choose 12-hour or 24-hour style

Daylight Daylight Savings Time (DST): On/Off

Direction Choose Course Up (oriented by your course direction) or North Up (oriented to compass north).

Location Accuracy Location in degrees (DDD), minutes (mm), and seconds (ss).

D-GPS D-GPS is a means of correcting GPS variances. Turn D-GPS off in the southern hemisphere.

Units of Measure Set Speed (Knots, MPH, or KM/H), Distance (Nautical Mile, Staute Mile, or Kilometer), or Altitude (Feet or Meter) as the radio's unit of measure.

NMEA Output Select the NMEA output (see page E-41).

Stationary Position Turn stationary positioning on or off.

Bread Crumbs Bread crumbs are GPS measurements recorded in specific intervals. These bread crumbs can help you "retrace" your trip from one spot to another. Select the length of time you want between bread crump measurements.


NMEA FEATURESYour radio supports NMEA 0183 (version 4.10), a standard for data communication between marine instruments.

NMEA sentences contain different sets of data related to your ship. The VHF470 supports the following sentences:

DATA RMC GLL GGA GSV GSAUTC Time O O O X X

Status (Valid/IInvalid) O O O X X

Latitude/Longitude O O O X X

Speed O X X X X

Course O X X X X

Date O X X X X

X = Data Not ProvidedO = Data Provided

CHARTPLOTTER CONNECTION

If you have difficulty getting your chartplotter to receive data from your radio, check the chartplotter's configuration. It should be set to the following parameters:

Baud rate 4800 bpsData bits 8Parity NoneStop bits 1Data amplitude Over 3.0 VDrive capability Over 10 mA

Connect to Chartplotter


NMEA OUTPUT When the radio receives a DSC call (Distress, Position Reply, or Position Send), it outputs a DSC/DSE sentences from the NMEA output port in the following formats:

• $CDDSC,12,3081234000,,07,00,0354013946,0657,,,S,E*6D

• $CDDSE,1,1,A,3081234000,00,60875646*13

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

RENAMING CHANNELS If you discover that a marine radio channel has a different common name in your local area, you can change the name of that channel to make it easier for you to use (see the channel lists beginning on page E-46 for the default channel names). To rename a channel, follow the steps below:

1. Press MENU and select RADIO SETUP/Channel Name. The screen displays the list of channels with their names.

2. Press or to select the channel you want to change and then press RENAME. 3. A popup keyboard displays. Enter a new name. When you have entered the name, select FINISH. 4. The channel list displays again with the new name. 5. When you are satisfied with the channel list, select CLR to return to the Idle screen.

MARINE RADIO APPWest Marine's Marine Radio app lets you configure your VHF470 and send text messages from your mobile device. The app is available for iOS and Android. Go to the Apple App store, Google Play, or Amazon to download this free app.

MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTINGDue to its rugged design, your radio requires very little maintenance. However, it is a precision elec-tronic instrument, so you should follow a few precautions:

• If the antenna has been damaged, do not transmit except in an emergency situation. Doing so may cause further radio damage.

• You are responsible for continued FCC technical compliance of your radio.

• Arrange for periodic performance checks with your West Marine dealer.

Problem Things to Try

The radio won’t turn on. - Verify that the battery is installed correctly. - Charge the radio.


Problem Things to Try

The power LED on the charger doesn’t turn on.

- Don’t use the charger when the ambient temperature is below 0° C (32° F) or above 45° C (113° F).

- Make sure the charging contacts on the radio and charger are clean.

- Replace the battery.

The radio won’t transmit.

- Make sure you are not in Weather or Scan mode. - Make sure you are not trying to transmit on a receive-only channel

or transmit at the wrong power level for this channel (see the channel lists starting on page E-46.

- Check the battery power level; if it’s low, charge the battery before trying to transmit.

- Make sure the duration of each transmission is less than 5 minutes.

- Try transmitting on a different channel.

I can’t hear anything from the speaker.

- Adjust the squelch level; it is probably too high. - Adjust the volume level; it is probably too low. - If the radio has been exposed to water, there may be water on the

speaker. Remove the water and allow the radio to dry out.Noise comes out of the speaker all the time Adjust the squelch level; it is probably too low.

I can transmit, but no one can hear me.

Check your UIC channel settings: does the area you are in use different channel assignments?

I’m not getting hazard alerts. Make sure Weather Alert Watch is turned on.

The display flashes, and I don’t know why.

The channel number on the display will flash if the radio is in a Watch mode or in Scan mode. Try turning off scanning, Weather Alert Watch, Triple Watch, or Dual Watch beginning on Page E-19.

Scan won’t start. Be sure you have channels saved into Favorites.No beeps sound. Key beep is set to OFF. Turn Key Beep on.I cannot send DSC calls.

- Make sure the MMSI (DSC self ID) is entered. - Turn ON the DSC Switch in the menus.

I cannot receive GPS position data.

Reposition the radio so that nothing blocks the antenna from the satellite signal.

Where can I find my radio’s serial number? The serial number is on a plate inside the battery compartment.

When I turn on the radio, I get a message that "positioning data is not acquired."

Be sure there are no obstructions between the radio's antenna and the sky. If you are inside the cabin, move outside.


SPECIFICATIONSGeneral

ChannelsAll US/International/Canada marine channels10 Weather channels

Freq. Control PLL

Freq. Tol.Transmit: 1.5 PPM (at 77°F/25°C)Receive: 1.5 PPM (at 77°F/25°C)

Oper. Temp. -4°F (-20°C) to +122°F(+50°C)Antenna Flexible WhipMicrophone Built-in Electret typeDisplay Liquid Crystal DisplaySpeaker 16Ω 1.0 W

Power Source Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery 7.4V 1800 mAh

Size (without antenna, and belt clip) 6.122 (H) x 2.562 (W) x 1.633 (D) inch155.5 (H) x 65.1 (W) x 41.5 (D) mm

Size (with antenna and belt clip) 11.791 (H) x 2.562 (W) x 2.173 (D) inch299.5 (H) x 65.1 (W) x 55.2 (D) mm

Weight (without battery, antenna, and belt clip) 6.673 oz (189.2g)

Weight (with battery, antenna, and belt clip) 10.945 oz (310.3g)

Battery Weight 3.135 oz (88.9g)Antenna Weight 0.686 oz (19.46g)Belt Clip Weight 0.449 oz (12.75g)

TransmitterFrequency Range 156~158 MHzFrequency Stability ±2.5 PPM maxPower Output 1W, 2.5W, and 6WSpurious Emissions -30 dBm @ HI; -30 dBm @ LO (nominal)Current Drain 1.5 A (6W)

Receiver

Type Double Conversion Super HeterodynePhase Locked Loop system for Local Oscillator

Frequency Range 156~164 MHz


Sensitivity 0.24 μV for 12dB SINADSquelch Sensitivity Threshold 0.2μVAudio Frequency Response +5.5 dB @ 500 Hz; -6 dB @ 2000HzAdjacent Channel Selectivity 73 dB @ ±25 kHzAudio Output Power ≥0.8 W @MAX VOLUMECurrent Drain Squelched: 90mA; Max. Audio: 350mA

REFERENCE TABLES

NOTE: This radio does not support AIS channels.

Channel Descriptions and What They MeanThe table below lists the display name or channel description used in the following tables and what each description means.

Channel name/description Used for

DISTRESS SAFETY AND CALLING primarily emergency messages and distress calls

INTERSHIP SAFETY safety messages from one ship to another, or from a ship to Coast Guard aircraft

NON-COMMERCIAL (recreational or voluntary ships only)

messages about the needs of the ship, including fishing reports, rendezvous, scheduling repairs and berthing information

COMMERCIAL (working ships only)

messages about the needs of the ship or the business the ship is engaged in

PUBLIC CORRESPONDENCE/MARINE OPERATOR

calls to the marine operator at a public coast station. Marine operators can connect you to the telephone network so you can make and receive calls. (There is usually a charge for this service.)

PORT OPERATIONS/VTS (ship traffic system)

messages about the movement and safety of ships in or near ports, locks or waterways. In certain major ports, some channels may be restricted to specific types of port operations messages.

NAVIGATIONAL/BRIDGE TO BRIDGE

messages about ship navigation, for example, passing or meeting other ships, maneuvering through locks, or navigating around drawbridges. Messages must be short!


Channel name/description Used for

STATE CONTROLmessages about government regulation and control, boating activities, or assistance to ships; also used to talk to ships and coastal stations operated by state or local governments

DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING

DSC signals only (no voice communications allowed at any time)

MARINE RADIO CHANNEL CHART

Ch No. USA INT CAN TX RX Channel Type/Name

01 x x 156.050 160.650 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)

01A* x 156.050 156.050Port Operation and Commercial [VTS (Vessel Traffic System)] in some areas.



04 x 156.200 160.800 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)

04A x 156.200 156.200 Canadian Coast Guard: West CoastCommercial Fishing: East Coast

05 x 156.250 160.850Public Correspondence (Marine Operator). Ship Movement, Port Operations

05A x x 156.250 156.250 Port Operations, Ship Movement, VTS in some areas

06 x x x 156.300 156.300 Inter-ship safety


7A x x 156.350 156.350 Commercial08 x x x 156.400 156.400 Commercial (Inter-Ship Only)



09 x x x 156.450 156.450 Boater Calling, Commercial and Non-Commercial

10 x x x 156.500 156.500 Commercial11 x x x 156.550 156.550 Commercial, VTS in selected areas12 x x x 156.600 156.600 Port Operations, VTS in selected areas

13 x x x 156.650 156.650

Intership Navigation Safety (Bridge-to-Bridge). Ships >20m length maintain a listening watch on this channel in US waters.

14 x x x 156.700 156.700 Port Operation, VTS in some areas15 x Inhibit 156.750 Environmental (Receive Only)

15 x x 156.750 156.750Inter-ship, Port Operations, Commercial, Non-Commercial, Ship Movement (1 Watt Only)

16 x x x 156.800 156.800 Distress, Safety, Calling

17 x x x 156.850 156.850 State and Local Govt Maritime Control (1 Watt Only)

18 x 156.900 161.500 Port Operations, Ship Movement

18A x x 156.900 156.900 CommercialCanada: Towing West Coast

19 x 156.950 161.550 Commercial19A x x 156.950 156.950 Commercial

20 x x x 157.000 161.600 Port OperationsCanada: 1 Watt Only

20A x 157.000 157.000 Port Operation

21 x 157.050 161.650 Port Operations

21A x x 157.050 157.050 Coast Guard Only

21B x INHIBIT 161.650 Canadian CG Continuous Marine Broadcast (CMB) Service

22 x 157.100 161.700 Port Operations, Ship Movement



22A x x 157.100 157.100US and Canadian Coast Guard Liaison and Airtime Safety Information Broadcasts Announced on Channel 16


23A x 157.150 157.150 US Coast Guard Only

23B x INHIBIT 161.750 Canadian CG Continuous Marine Broadcast (CMB Service

24 x x x 157.200 161.800 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)









61A x 156.075 156.075 Canadian Coast Guard: West CoastCommercial Fishing: East Coast


62A x 156.125 156.125 Canadian Coast Guard




63A x x 156.175 156.175 VTS, Port Operations


64A x 156.225 156.225 Canada: Commercial Fishing Only


65A x x 156.275 156.275 Port OperationsCanada: Towing West Coast


66A x x 156.325 156.325 Port OperationsCanada: 1 Watt Only

67 x x x 156.375 156.375

US: Commercial, Bridge-to-Bridge, VTS in some areasCanada: Search and Rescue, Commercial in some areas, Non-Commercial on West Coast

68 x x x 156.425 156.425 Non -Cmmercial

69 x x x 156.475 156.475Non-CommercialCanada: Commercial East Coast. Non-Commercial West Coast

70 x x x 156.525 156.525 DSC (Digital Selective Calling) Only. No Voice Communications Allowed

71 x x x 156.575 156.575US: Non-CommercialCanada: Ship Movement West Coast, Non-Commercial East Coast

72 x x x 156.625 156.625 Non-Commercial (Ship-to-Ship)73 x x x 156.675 156.675 Port Operations74 x x x 156.725 156.725 Port Operations75 x x x 156.775 156.775 Port Operations (1 Watt Only)76 x x x 156.825 156.825 Port Operations (1 Watt Only)77 x x x 156.875 156.875 Port Operations (Ship-to-Ship)78 x 156.925 161.525 Port Operations



78A x x 156.925 156.925 Non-Commercial, Inter-Ship79 x 156.975 161.575 Port Operations79A x x 156.9750 156.975 Commercial, Inter-Ship80 x 157.025 161.625 Port Operationsx80A x x 157.025 157.025 Commercial, Inter-Ship81 x 157.075 161.675 Port Operations81A x x 157.075 157.075 Government, Canadian Coast Guard82 x 157.125 161.725 Port Operations82A x x 157.125 157.125 Government, Canadian Coast Guard83 x 157.175 161.775 Port Operations83A x x 157.175 157.175 Coast Guard







1019 x x 156.950 156.950 Commercial1020 x x 157.000 157.000 Port Operations1078 x x 156.925 156.925 Non-Commercial, Inter-Ship1079 x x 156.975 156.975 Commercial, Inter-Ship2019 x 161.550 161.550 Commercial2020 x 161.600 161.600 Port Operations2078 x 161.525 161.525 Port Operations2079 x 161.575 161.575 Port Operations


WEATHER CHANNELS AND FREQUENCIES (US, CAN, AND INTL)

Ch No. RX Freq Name on displayWX01 162.5500 162.550 MHzWX02 162.4000 162.400 MHzWX03 162.4750 162.475 MHzWX04 162.4250 162.425 MHzWX05 162.4500 162.450 MHzWX06 162.5000 162.500 MHzWX07 162.5250 162.525 MHzWX08 161.6500 161.650 MHzWX09 161.7750 161.775 MHzWX10 163.2750 163.275 MHz

EMERGENCY ALERT (SAME) SYSTEM

Types of Events• A WARNING is an event that alone poses a significant threat to public safety and/or property, probability of

occurrence and location is high, and the onset time is relatively short.

• A WATCH meets the classification of a warning, but either the onset time, probability of occurrance, or location is uncertain.

• An EMERGENCY is an event that, by itself, would not kill or injure or do property damage, but indirectly may cause other things to happen that result in a hazard. For example, a major power or telephone loss in a large city alone is not a direct hazard, but disruption to other critical services could create a variety of conditions that could directly threaten public safety.

• A STATEMENT is a message containing follow up information to a warning, watch, or emergency.

Event SAME Code Type

Blizzard Warning BZW Warning

Coastal Flood Watch CFA WatchCoastal Flood Warning CFW WarningDust Storm Warning DSW Warning


Event SAME Code TypeFlash Flood Watch FFA WatchFlash Flood Warning FFW WarningFlash Flood Statement FFS StatementFlood Watch FLA WatchFlood Warning FLW WarningFlood Statement FLS StatementHigh Wind Watch HWA WatchHigh Wind Warning HWW WarningHurricane Watch HUA WatchHurricane Warning HUW WarningHurricane Statement HLS StatementSevere Thunderstorm Watch SVA Watch

Severe Thunderstorm Warning SVR Warning

Severe Weather Statement SVS StatementSpecial Marine Warning SMW WarningSpecial Weather Statement SPS StatementTornado Watch TOA WatchTornado Warning TOR WarningTropical Storm Watch TRA WatchTropical Storm Warning TRW WarningTsunami Watch TSA WatchTsunami Warning TSW WarningWinter Storm Watch WSA WatchWinter Storm Warning WSW WarningAvalanche Watch AVA WatchAvalanche Warning AVW WarningChild Abduction Emergency CAE EmergencyCivil Danger Warning CDW WarningCivil Emergency Message CEM Emergency


Event SAME Code TypeEarthquake Warning EQW WarningEvacuation Immediate EVI WarningFire Warning FRW WarningHazardous Materials Warning HMW Warning

Law Enforcement Warning LEW WarningLocal Area Emergency LAE Emergency911 Telephone Outage Emergency TOE Emergency

Nuclear Power Plant Warning NUW Warning

Radiological Hazard Warning RHW Warning

Shelter in Place Warning SPW WarningVolcano Warning VOW WarningTest Message ADR TestPractice/Demo Warning DMO TestRequired Monthly Test RMT TestRequired Weekly Test RWT Test

No Response Event Code

TXB Transmitter Backup OnTXF Transmitter Carrier OnTXO Transmitter Carrier OnTXP Transmitter Primary On

REGULATIONS AND SAFETY WARNINGS

MARITIME RADIO SERVICES OPERATIONWARNING! This transmitter will operate on channels/frequencies that have restricted use in the United States. The channel assignments include frequencies assigned for exclusive use of the U.S. Coast

WARNING! Read this information before using the radio.


Guard, use in Canada, and use in international waters. Operation on these frequencies without proper authorization is strictly forbidden. See page E-46 for tables of the available channels and their uses. If you are still not certain which channels to use, see the FCC maritime radio page at the FCC website (http://wireless.fcc.gov/marine/) or contact the FCC Call Center at 1-888-CALL-FCC. For individuals requiring a license, such as commercial users, you should obtain a license application from your nearest FCC field office (for US users) or Industry Canada (for Canadian users).

BASIC RADIO GUIDELINESYou should familiarize yourself with the rules on marine radios and be aware of which rules apply to your ship. Complete guidelines for all ship and marine radio types can be found at the US Coast Guard website under the topic Radio Info for Boaters (the direct link is http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=mtBoater. Here are a few guidelines that affect nearly all boaters.

• If you have a VHF radio on your ship, you must maintain a watch on channel 16 (156.800 MHz) whenever the radio is not being used to communicate. Starting in 2004, if a radio is carried, it must be on and set to channel 16 WHenever your ship is underway.

• If you hear a distress call, wait a few minutes to let a shore station or Coast Guard ship respond. If no other station has responded after 5 minutes, you must respond to the distress call.

• Do not make false mayday or distress calls as a prank or to test your radio. (This is essen-tially like making a false 9-1-1 call; you may be subject to fines.)

FCC/INDUSTRY CANADA INFORMATIONCertification: FCC Part 80 or RSS-182

Output Power: 6W

Emission: 16K0F3E

Transmitter Frequency Range: 156.025-157.425 MHz

FCC RF EXPOSURE INFORMATIONIn August 1996 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) of the United States with its action in Report and Order FCC 96-326 adopted an updated safety standard for human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy emitted by FCC regulated transmitters. Those guide-lines are consistent with the safety standard previously set by both U.S. and international stan-dards bodies. The design of the radio complies with the FCC guidelines and these international standards.

Never allow children to operate the radio without adult supervision and the knowledge of the fol-lowing guidelines.

WARNING! It is up to the user to properly operate this radio transmitter to insure safe operation. Please adhere to the following:


• Use only the supplied or an approved antenna. Unauthorized antennas, modifications, or attachments could impair call quality, damage the radio, or violate FCC regulations.

• Do not use the radio with a damaged antenna. If a damaged antenna comes into contact with the skin, a minor burn may result. Please contact your local dealer for a replacement antenna.

• To maintain compliance with FCC RF exposure requirements, the radio must be used with a maximum duty cycle not exceeding 50% in a typical push-to-talk radio use time. DO NOT transmit for more than 50% of total radio use time.

BODY-WORN OPERATIONThis device was tested for typical body-worn operations using the supplied belt-clip. To maintain compli-ance with FCC RF exposure requirements, body-worn operations are restricted to the supplied belt-clip. For hand-held operation, the radio should be held 1 inch from the user’s face. The use of accessories that do not satisfy these requirements may not comply with FCC RF exposure requirements and should be avoided. For more information about RF exposure, please visit the FCC website at www.fcc.gov.

LITHIUM ION BATTERY WARNINGThis equipment contains a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery. The rechargeable Lithium Ion battery contained in this equipment may explode if disposed of in a fire.

Do not short-circuit the battery.

Do not charge the rechargeable battery used in this equipment in any charger other than the one specified in the owner’s manual. Using another charger may damage the battery or cause the bat-tery to explode.

NOTE: Li-Ion batteries must be recycled or disposed of properly.

Avoid exposing the battery (whether attached to the radio or not) to direct sunlight, heated cars, or temperatures below -4°F (-20°C) or above +140°F (+60°C). Exposing the chemical contained within the battery pack to temperatures above +140°F (+60°C) may cause the battery to rupture, fail, or reduce performance.

In case of exposure to the cell contents, wash the affected area thoroughly, and seek medical attention.

RBRC INFORMATIONAs part of our commitment to protect the environment and conserve natural resources, West Marine voluntarily participates in an RBRC® industry program to collect and recycle used Li-Ion batteries within the US.

Please call 1-800-8-BATTERY for information on Li-Ion battery recycling in your area.


(RBRC® is a registered trademark of the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation.)

COMPLIANCE

FCC Part 15The equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interfer-ence in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interfer-ence by one of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void your authority to operate the equipment. Any change or modification must be approved in writing by West Marine.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Tout changement ou modification non approuvé expressément par la partie responsable pourrait annuler le droit à l’utilisateur de faire fonctionner cet équipement. Tout changement ou modification doit être approuvé par écrit par West Marine.

Avis de conformité à la FCC : Ce dispositif a été testé et s’avère conforme à l’article 15 des règlements de la Commission fédérale des communications (FCC). Ce dispositif est soumis aux conditions suiv-antes: 1) Ce dispositif ne doit pas causer d’interférences nuisibles et; 2) Il doit pouvoir supporter les parasites qu’il reçoit, incluant les parasites pouvant nuire à son fonctionnement.

In order to comply with FCC RF Exposure requirements, this device must be installed to provide at least 7.9 in (20 cm) separation from the human body at all times.

ICThis device complies with Industry Canada's license-exempt RSSs. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) this device may not cause interference, and

(2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.


Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR d’Industrie Canada destinés aux appareils radio exempts de licence. Son fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :

1) Cet appareil ne doit pas causer d’interférences nuisibles et;

2) Il doit pouvoir accepter les interférences, incluant celles pouvant nuire à son fonctionnement normal.

In order to comply with FCC/ISED RF Exposure requirements, this device must be installed to provide at least 7.9 in. (20 cm) separation from the human body at all times.

Afin de se conformer aux exigences d’exposition RF FCC/ISED, ce dispositif doit être installé pour assurer une séparation d’au moins 20 cm du corps humain à tout moment.

LEAD WARNINGThe cords on this product and/or accessories contain lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. West Marine works to reduce lead content in our PVC coated cords in our products and accessories.

ANTENNA SELECTION AND INSTALLATION Your VHF490 has been designed to accommodate all of the popular marine VHF antennas. However, the selection and the installation of the antenna is the responsibility of the user or installer.

The FCC has determined that excessive radiation poses a health risk to people near radio transmitting antennas. Therefore, the antenna used with this radio should be installed using the following guidelines to ensure a suitable distance between the antenna and persons close by.

• Small whip antennas (3 dB) or smaller should be installed keeping at least a two foot separation distance between the radiating element and people.

• Medium antennas (6 dB) should be installed keeping at least a three foot separation distance.

• Larger antennas (9 dB) should be installed keeping at least a four foot separation distance.

• No person should touch the antenna or come into the separation distance when the radio is transmitting.

THREE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY This Limited Warranty is void outside the United States of America and Canada.

What Does This Limited Warranty Cover?West Marine warrants to the original retail purchaser of the West Marine product, where the purchase is made in the United States or Canada, that for thirty-six (36) months from date of original retail purchase said product will be free from defects in materials and craftsmanship with only the limitations or exclusions set out below.

How Long Does This Limited Warranty Last?


This limited warranty is valid for thirty-six (36) months from the date of the original retail purchase from West Marine within the United States (the “Limited Warranty Term”).

The warranty period is not extended if we repair or replace a warranted product or any parts. West Marine reserves the right to change the availability of limited warranties, at its discretion, but any changes will not be retroactive and will only apply to subsequent purchases.

What Does This Limited Warranty Not Cover?This limited warranty is invalid where and does not cover:

• Software.• Commercial or industrial use or operation.• Normal maintenance items or normal wear and tear.• Problems resulting from fire or exposure to caustic liquids.• The product was damaged, modified or altered.• The product was used as part of any conversion kits, subassemblies, or any configurations not

appropriate or contemplated for this product or its use.• Damage or loss occurring during return shipment of the product to West Marine or its authorized

service representative.• The product was subject to improper service, repair, installation, storage, maintenance, alteration

or application. • Problems that result from accident, neglect, abuse, misuse or issues with electrical power, • Problems caused by accessories, parts or components added to the product that are not

appropriate for this product or its use.

THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE (OR JURISDICTION TO JURISDICTION). WEST MARINE’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR MALFUNCTIONS AND DEFECTS IN HARDWARE IS LIMITED TO REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS SET FORTH IN THIS WARRANTY STATEMENT. ALL EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES FOR THE PRODUCT, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED IN TIME TO THE TERM OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY (AS SPECIFIED ABOVE). NO WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WILL APPLY AFTER THE LIMITED WARRANTY PERIOD HAS EXPIRED. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

WE DO NOT ACCEPT LIABILITY BEYOND THE REMEDIES PROVIDED FOR IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY OR FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT


LIMITATION, ANY LIABILITY FOR THIRD-PARTY CLAIMS AGAINST YOU FOR DAMAGES, FOR PRODUCTS NOT BEING AVAILABLE FOR USE, OR FOR LOST DATA OR LOST SOFTWARE. OUR LIABILITY WILL BE NO MORE THAN THE AMOUNT YOU PAID FOR THE PRODUCT THAT IS THE SUBJECT OF A CLAIM. THIS IS THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT FOR WHICH WE ARE RESPONSIBLE. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

What Must I Do To Keep the Warranty in Effect?• You must keep your receipt or other appropriate documentation as proof of the date of sale and

purchase. • You must keep your serial number or order number for the product. This is found on the product

itself or on your receipt.• You must not do any of the things that will make the warranty invalid as provided for in this

warranty statement.• You must use, install, maintain and operate the product in accordance with published specifica-

tions and the user’s manual.

What Do I Do If I Need Warranty Service?• Before the warranty expires, please call us at 1-800-BOATING (1-800-262-8464). Please also

have your serial number or order number available.• When you contact us, we will issue a Return Material Authorization Number for you to include

with your return. We will also provide you the address of where to ship the product. • You must return the product to us in its original or equivalent packaging, prepay shipping

charges, and insure the shipment or accept the risk if the product is lost or damaged in shipment.

What Will West Marine Do?During the Limited Warranty Term, if the product you return to us proves to be defective in materials or workmanship and not for the reasons which would otherwise disqualify it (as explained here), then we will:

• At West Marine’s option, we will repair the product or, if we are unable to repair it, we will replace it with a comparable product that is new or refurbished;

• Or, as an alternative, at West Marine’s option, we will refund you the original purchase price; • If we repair or replace the product, we will return the repaired or replacement product to you;

and


• Pay to ship the repaired or replacement product to you if you use an address in the United States (excluding Puerto Rico and U.S. possessions and territories). Otherwise, we will ship the product to you freight collect.

• If we determine that the problem is not covered under this warranty, we will notify you of this when we return your product to you to the address you provide us in the United States (excluding Puerto Rico and U.S. possessions and territories).

• We use new and refurbished parts made by various manufacturers in performing warranty repairs and in building replacement parts and systems. Refurbished parts and systems are parts or systems that have been returned to West Marine, some of which were never used by a customer. Replacement parts and systems are covered for the remaining time left in the Limited Warranty Term for the product you bought (whatever time remains in the twelve months since purchase). West Marine owns all parts removed from repaired products.

Maintenance is the Owner’s ResponsibilityCleaning, polishing, lubricating, replacing filters, tuning, replacing worn parts, using your pur-chased product according to the user’s manual, and regularly maintaining your purchased product is your responsibility.

What if I purchased a Plus Protection Plan?Service will be provided to you under the terms of the Plus Protection Plan Contract. Please refer to that contract for details on how to obtain service.

How State Law Relates to the Warranty.This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

43000-1851 Rev:12/13


NOTES

westmarine.com

West Marine Products, Inc.Watsonville, CA

© 2017 Uniden America Corporation

Irving, Texas, USA

Issue 1, November 2017

Printed in China

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